Autonomous vehicles are becoming an increasingly common sight across Los Angeles, particularly in areas like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood. As self-driving technology expands, many riders are asking an important question: is riding in a Waymo safer than Uber?
As we’ve previously discussed in our past blog on the future of Waymo and its growing presence in Beverly Hills, removing the human driver can reduce certain risks. However, autonomous vehicles also introduce unique insurance and liability concerns that passengers should understand before stepping inside a self-driving car.
Waymo vs Uber Safety: What the Data Shows
Concerns around rideshare safety are not hypothetical. Between 2017 and 2022, Uber reported approximately 400,000 sexual misconduct incidents, averaging nearly one report every eight minutes nationwide.
For many riders, especially families, eliminating the human driver factor feels safer. That is one reason passengers increasingly choose Waymo over traditional rideshare services like Uber.
But safety is not only about who is behind the wheel. It is also about what happens if a crash occurs.
Autonomous Vehicle Insurance Coverage Explained
One of the biggest differences between Waymo and Uber lies in insurance coverage after an accident. Many passengers assume they are fully protected simply because the vehicle is autonomous. That is not always true.
If Waymo Is at Fault
If Waymo’s autonomous driving system is determined to be responsible for the crash, Waymo provides up to $5 million in coverage for passenger injuries and damages. This level of coverage can be significant in serious injury cases.
If Waymo Is Not at Fault
If another driver causes the accident, Waymo provides no liability coverage for passenger injuries. In these situations, recovery depends on the at-fault driver’s insurance or the passenger’s own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Medical Payments Coverage
Waymo provides up to $25,000 in medical payments coverage for passengers. Once that amount is exhausted, additional medical expenses may need to be covered through personal insurance or a personal injury claim.
Who Is Liable in a Waymo Accident?
Determining liability in an autonomous vehicle accident is more complex than in a traditional rideshare crash. Liability may involve:
- The autonomous vehicle operator
- Another negligent driver
- Insurance coverage disputes
- Technology and system failure questions
This complexity is why Waymo accident claims and self-driving car injury cases require careful legal evaluation.
Why Your Own Insurance Still Matters
Even when riding in a self-driving vehicle, your personal auto insurance can play a critical role. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is especially important when another driver is responsible for the crash and lacks adequate insurance.
Passengers often assume Waymo insurance will cover every scenario. Unfortunately, insurance gaps can leave injured riders financially exposed.
What to Do After a Waymo or Uber Accident
If you are injured in a Waymo or Uber accident in Los Angeles:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene and your injuries
- Avoid assuming the company’s insurance will cover everything
- Speak with a lawyer experienced in autonomous vehicle accident claims
Speak With a Los Angeles Waymo Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured while riding in a self-driving vehicle or rideshare, Etehad Law can help. Our firm handles complex personal injury cases involving autonomous vehicles, rideshare accidents, and evolving liability laws throughout California.
Understanding your rights after a Waymo accident can make the difference between being fully compensated and being left with uncovered expenses.
Carry strong insurance. Know your risks. And if an accident happens, contact Etehad Law.
